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When we think of the health issues that may afflict seasoned athletes, especially those as formidable as former NFL players, sleep apnea is not usually the first condition that comes to mind. However, Derek Kennard, a former NFL player who graced the field with his presence for the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and Phoenix Cardinals, has brought this issue before the public many times.
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. For Kennard, a man who fought on the lines as a versatile offensive lineman, the battle with sleep apnea was one he initially didn't even know he was fighting.
The Silent Opponent
Kennard's story with sleep apnea is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most challenging opponent is the one you can't see. It was only after his career, when his snoring became a severe enough issue to disturb his sleep—and his wife's—that he sought help. A sleep study followed, leading to a diagnosis of sleep apnea.
CPAP Intolerant
His Doctor recommended PAP therapy. What he didn’t expect was that Derek would be intolerant to using the CPAP equipment.
CPAP intolerance refers to a patient's inability to consistently use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This intolerance can be due to various reasons: discomfort, constriction, Noise, Dryness, overall inconvenience in the bedroom, including dissatisfaction from his bed partner.
The Turning Point and Improved Sleep
The turning point came when Kennard experienced the benefits of using an Oral Appliance which was designed by Master Technician David Gergen, CEO of Gergens Orthodontic Lab. Oral appliances are generally considered to be more comfortable than CPAP masks. They are small, fit entirely inside the mouth, and do not require a face mask, straps, or tubing. They are also convenient for travel because oral appliances are compact and portable, compared to CPAP machines.
The Advocate Emerges
Kennard's experience with sleep apnea turned him into an advocate for awareness of the condition, especially among athletes. He recognized that the size and weight associated with being an NFL lineman—an asset on the field—could contribute to the risk of sleep apnea off the field.
A Broader Impact
Kennard's story has had a ripple effect, encouraging fellow athletes and the public to take sleep seriously. He has spoken out about the importance of proper sleep for overall health and performance. His message is clear: if sleep apnea can affect a professional athlete in peak physical condition, it can impact anyone.
The Legacy of Awareness
Today, Kennard continues to spread the word about sleep apnea, working with organizations such as the American Sleep and Breathing Academy “ASBA” which aim to bring sleep disorders to the forefront of health discussions. His legacy is not only shaped by his achievements on the football field but also by his commitment to tackling sleep apnea head-on.
Derek Kennard's experience is a testament to the importance of sleep health and the impact that awareness can have. As more light is shed on sleep apnea, thanks to voices like Kennard's, the hope is that more people will seek the help they need and achieve the restful sleep they deserve.